Researchers from South China University of Technology and the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics have fabricated a novel anode material for lithium-ion batteries consisting of tin nanoparticles coated with carbon embedded in graphene (Sn@C/graphene). The reversible specific capacity of the nanocomposite is 662 mAh g-1 at a specific current of 100 mA g-1 after 100 cycles, and 417 mAh g-1 at the high current of 1000 mA g-1.
These results, suggest Liang et al., indicate that Sn@C/graphene possesses superior cycle performance and high rate capability. The size of the Sn@C nanoparticles is about 50–200 nm.
The researchers ascribed the enhanced electrochemical performances to the characteristic structure of the nanocomposite with both graphene and carbon shells, which buffer the volume change of the metallic tin and prevent the detachment and agglomeration of pulverized tin.
Resources
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Liang, Shuzhao et al. (2011) Superior cycle performance of Sn@C/graphene nanocomposite as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries. Journal of Solid State Chemistry. doi: 10.1016/j.jssc.2011.03.052